Students to Host Conservative Lecture in D.C.

July 29, 2009

Author Philip Bess will deliver a lecture entitled Urbanism: Old and New, Past and Future, Continuities and Discontinuities at the District Chophouse in downtown Washington, D.C., on August 4, at 7 p.m.

Philip Bess, a prominent speaker and architect, will discuss New Urbanism and the Thomistic and Aristotelian principles that govern traditional urban design.

The event, funded by the Intercollegiate Studies Institute, is co-sponsored by Christendom College's Cincinnatus League, Christendom's forum for conservative political philosophy, as well as Conservatism on Tap, a D.C. area group that sponsors lectures about the fundamental principles of Western civilization for young professionals. It is expected to provide a huge draw for conservatives and interns in the D.C. area.

According to Cincinnatus League president and Family Research Council intern Tara Jackson, "Young conservatives in the area rarely attend events that directly strengthen their principles. Bess' lecture will provide a unique opportunity for discussion of conservative ideas and principles at the heart of our nation's capital."

Fellow club member Cyrus Artz also expressed enthusiasm for the event: "Bess is a conservative who won't look down on me for my love of cities. I expect his lecture to be a breath of fresh air that validates my personal preference for urban dynamism."

The event brings Christendom students and their learning to downtown D.C., providing a unique way for students to continue their education over the summer.

Bess is Professor of Architecture and Director of Graduate Studies at the University of Notre Dame School of Architecture. He directed the successful "Save Fenway Park!" charrette in August 2000, and is the author of several books, most recently Till We Have Built Jerusalem: Architecture, Urbanism, and the Sacred.

The lecture, open to the public, is to be held at the District Chophouse, located in downtown Washington on 7th Street. Appetizers, beer, and wine will be served.